The Essex County Democrat wrote the comparison to the wise character on his Facebook page.

"Codey for Governor? Christie's style has vaulted his popularity, but Codey has style also. Christie's feisty style has overshadowed his support for Romney and his policies that would cut taxes on the wealthy while putting added burdens on everyone else," Lesniak wrote. "Honk if you like Codey for Governor. Now that Corey Booker has chosen not to run, Codey is our Obi Wan Kenobi.

“I’ve always believed that Dick Codey would be a very strong candidate, and right now I believe he’s clearly the best candidate,” Lesniak told the Star-Ledger.

Booker before Christmas chose to explore a 2014 run for the US Senate seat held by Frank Laurenberg leaving Barbara Buono as the only declared Democrat running for Statehouse.

Senator Ray Lesniak (R) (Dino Flammia, Townsquare Media)

Codey's name, as well as that of Senate President Steve Sweeney, have become the most prominent names. The two had dinner last week to discuss the race according to the Star Ledger.

Codey served as Governor in 2004 following the resignation of James McGreevey.